Café Allegre, chef and owner Ilario Suppa, is celebrating his family’s 25-year culinary legacy in downtown. The restaurant has built a faithful customer base through its consistent recipes and community outreach.

Suppa’s father started the business in 1998, and Ilario has continued the tradition by adhering to his father’s recipes and remaining true to his Italian roots.

“My father started the business in June of 1998, Chef Silvio, and he passed away about five and a half years ago,” said Suppa. “Since then, I took over his role as chef/owner, and I’ve been carrying on the traditions. I’ve tried to keep all the recipes the same and all the food the same and keep it as he had it,” said Suppa.

According to Suppa, the restaurant is most known for its unique seafood dish, Capellini al Telefono. Suppa said it is an original creation by his dad, Chef Silvio, that has been their best-selling item since they first opened their doors.

“It’s hand-picked Maine lobster meat in a delicate cream sauce. It has been our go-to dish since we opened. It’s our best seller and my favorite dish to eat,” said Suppa.

Suppa added, “That was the main draw for my dad originally was the town itself. Everyone here has always been so supportive. It is such a beautiful small town, and my dad always said Madison reminded him of his hometown in Italy. It was exactly the place he was looking for to open his business.”

A testament to Allegre’s legacy is its staff, many of whom were first hired by Chef Silvio and have been with the restaurant since it opened.

“My family has been such a support, and also my staff. Without them, we wouldn’t exist. We have a couple of chefs and servers who have been with us since day one. They are really dedicated people. Without them, Café Allegre wouldn’t be possible,” said Suppa.

Café Allegre is located at 725 Boston Post Road, Madison. For more information, call 203-245-7773 or visit www.cafeallegre.com.